It is important to point out that teacher’s salaries will range depending on many different factors. Teachers who educate at a preschool level will make considerably less than a teacher who specializes in a specific subject at the higher grades. Teachers who seek continued education or complete certification programs also receive a higher compensation. In addition, factors such as years of teaching experience and level of education play a role in a teacher’s salary.
Another way some teachers choose to supplement the standard salary is to participate in coaching sports. In most school districts, there is additional pay for coaches as well as teachers who participate in leading extra curricular activities.
It is important to note that pay scales, salaries, and benefits will vary depending on the state, the school district, and the level of education a teacher is providing.
Here is a breakdown of the median national averages of salaries for teachers by grade:
Elementary School Teacher $38,830 per year
Middle School Teacher $40,290 per year
Secondary School Teacher $40,910 per year
Kindergarten Teacher $35,460 per year
Preschool Teacher $32,800 per year
As it has been said, teacher salaries will also vary based on the State of employment. Here is a breakdown of the median national average for individual States:
California $45,270 per year
Texas $36,340 per year
New York $48,970 per year
Pennsylvania $45,780 per year
Florida $35,470 per year
Median national averages per specialized subject.
Mathematics $36,000 per year
History $36,205 per year
Science $36,450 per year
Foreign Language $35,000 per year
Teacher salary averages are according to payscale.com.
Teacher salary schedules are a matter of public record. It may be necessary to do some research before applying for a position in a specific school district. The need for trained teachers is constantly growing, due to increases in population and an anticipated loss of many teachers to retirement.
Along with the salary packages, teachers also receive full medical benefits. They work a traditional workweek of Monday-Friday with weekends and holidays off. Another attraction is the winter, spring, and summer breaks. Many teachers are also part of a teachers union, which negotiates and works to make sure teachers are working in the best possible conditions.
Becoming a teacher is a rewarding career for those that are interested in doing their part to contribute to the growth and successes of America’s youth. It is often said that teachers do not teach for the money. They teach to give back to communities and to inspire.